Canada Entry Requirements

Complete guide to entry requirements for traveling to Canada. Ensure you have all necessary documents and meet all conditions for a smooth entry into Canada.

Essential Entry Requirements

All travelers to Canada must meet specific entry requirements. Rules may vary based on your nationality, purpose of visit, and length of stay.

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond planned departure
Must have at least one blank page for entry stamp
Machine-readable passport recommended
Emergency travel documents accepted in some cases

eTA or Visa

eTA: For visa-exempt countries (flying to Canada)
Visitor Visa: For countries requiring visa
Transit Visa: For some countries when transiting
Apply online well in advance

Proof of Funds

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Credit card statements
Traveler's cheques
Minimum CAD $100 per day recommended

Health Requirements

No specific vaccinations required for most countries
Medical exam may be required for some visitors
Travel health insurance strongly recommended
Prescription medications must be properly labeled

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

The eTA is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to Canada by air. It's a simple online application that takes just minutes to complete.

eTA Application Process:

1

Prepare Documents

Valid passport, credit card, and email address

2

Complete Online Form

Fill out the application with accurate information

3

Pay Fee

CAD $7 processing fee via credit card

4

Receive Approval

Usually approved within minutes via email

Important eTA Information

Valid for 5 years or until passport expires
Allows multiple entries to Canada
Each stay can be up to 6 months
Only for air travel (not land or sea)
Apply at least 72 hours before travel
Electronically linked to your passport

Requirements by Country/Region

Entry requirements vary depending on your nationality. Check the specific conditions for your country.

European Union

eTA required for air travel
No visa required for tourism
Stay up to 6 months
Valid passport required

United States

No eTA required for air travel
Valid passport or enhanced ID
Stay up to 6 months
Special border crossing rules

Other Countries

Visitor visa may be required
Check specific country requirements
Processing time: 2-4 weeks
Additional documents may be needed

Important Reminders

Processing Times

eTA: Usually within minutes, can take up to 72 hours
Visitor Visa: 2-4 weeks (apply early)
Study/Work Permits: 4-12 weeks

Travel Insurance

While not mandatory, travel health insurance is strongly recommended. Medical costs in Canada can be very expensive for visitors.

Need Help?

Our travel experts can assist you with entry requirements and documentation. We provide personalized guidance based on your nationality and travel plans.

contact@canadiantrip.org

Contact Our Experts

Official Resources

Always verify the latest requirements from official Canadian government sources.

Government of Canada

canada.ca

Official immigration information

eTA Application

canada.ca/eta

Official eTA application portal

Visa Information

cic.gc.ca

Immigration and citizenship

Health Requirements

travel.gc.ca

Travel health and safety